Yuma, Arizona - May 12, 2011 - The National Border Patrol Council is deeply saddened to report the death of Border Patrol Agent Hector R. Clark and Lead Border Patrol Agent Eduardo Rojas Jr.

Agents Rojas and Clark died in the line of duty while on patrol near the intersection of Interstate 8 and Palomas Road, about nine miles west of Gila Bend, Arizona. The agents were in an unmarked U.S. Border Patrol vehicle when it was involved in a collision with a freight train at a railroad crossing. Both agents died of injuries sustained in the accident.

Lead Border Patrol Agent Rojas began his career with the U.S. Border Patrol on April 9, 2000 as a member of the 432nd Session. He was assigned to the Yuma Sector since his entry on duty and graduation from the Academy. Agent Rojas is survived by his wife, Sayde and two children, Hayle and Dante. He was 34 years of age at the time of his death.

Border Patrol Agent Clark began his career with the U.S. Border Patrol on August 20, 2001 as a member of the 481st Session. He transferred to the Yuma Sector after he spent eight years in the El Centro Sector. Agent Clark is survived by his wife, Neddy and two children, Cody and Katy. He was 39 years of age at the time of his death.

This tragic accident further serves to remind us of the risks associated with the work Border Patrol agents perform daily in an effort to secure the Nation’s borders and protect its citizens.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Clark and Rojas families, friends, and coworkers during this difficult time.